When the ground shakes, and a poor nation's economy is destroyed; when the waters rise, washing away a community's hopes and dreams; when a child suffers neglect and abuse; when violence tears apart nations; where is God? If God is all powerful, and if each one of us is a beloved child of God, then how can God allow tragedy and suffering to infest his creation? When we lift our prayers to God, and no answer seems to come; when we earnestly seek to know the will of God for our lives, yet can't seem to discern it; when God seems far away; where is God? If God counts the hairs on our head, and knows every sparrow that falls, why is finding and understanding God's will so difficult at times?In Why? Making Sense of God's Will best-selling author Adam Hamilton brings fresh insight to the age-old question of how to understand the will of God. Rejecting simplistic answers and unexamined assumptions, Hamilton addresses how we can comprehend God's plan for the world and ourselves.Chapters include:1. Why Do the Innocent Suffer?2. Why Do My Prayers Go Unanswered?3. Why Can't I See God's Will for My Life?4. Why God's Love Prevails
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"I picked this up when it was offered on Amazon for free because it looked interesting. I was always curious as to how some people could keep their faith when dealing with tragedy. I am not a Christian nor am I religious but I enjoyed this book. It was very well written, clear, and insightful."
— Erica (4 out of 5 stars)
" Overall I really like this book by Adam Hamilton. Once again i don't agree with all of his conclusions but many of them are along the lines of my own theology. A great book that I used for a four week sermon series at my church. "
— Sadie, 2/15/2014" Enlightening. I loved this book! "
— Nikki, 1/12/2014" The author, a Methodist minister, addresses the question of how a loving and just God can allow tragedies and natural disasters in our lives. I think he does a really good job. "
— Ann, 11/27/2013" I really like Adam Hamilton so that us probably why I lost interest and could not finish this book - I have already heard him say all this. However, if you are not familiar with this pastor and his common sense, today approach to religion it is worth picking up and perusing. "
— Ashlee, 11/26/2013" It gives you a better perspective and a logical reason for why bad things happen. This book helps you to have a better answer than "It was Gods Will". Would recommend for those who are discovering God and have questions. Seek and ye shall find. "
— Crystal, 11/25/2013" I really enjoyed this book. I've been so frustrated with the common view of "God's protection" and "God's will", and this book perfectly addressed so many of the things that have been bothering me. It is a really fast read, and I definitely recommend it! "
— HippieMommy, 11/13/2013" Our pastor is doing a sermon series based on this book and we are attending a small group discussion reflecting the book and sermons. "
— Allison, 11/9/2013" A good book with very thoughtful practical approach to why bad things happen to good people or why bad things happen at all. I have enjoyed his sermons and books on the topic and recommend to anyone wresting with these questions as it may help in your journey. "
— Nicole, 11/7/2013" Adam Hamilton always does an awesome bible study guide. This one was a bit more simple in context, but thought provocking none the less! "
— Danielle, 10/29/2013" terrific terrific book dealing with those questions that we really don't have a good answer for. not too long or deep either, just right!! highly recommend it "
— Donna, 9/12/2013" Wonderful look at hard questions people ask when they are in pain and a great summary of the hope of the Christian faith. "
— Allison, 8/16/2013" Adam is the pastor of my church and this book answers in a way that is very understandable the ever present question of why do bad things happen to good people. I have learned so much from this gifted man. "
— Kathy, 7/16/2013" Quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Has a way of explaining somethings pretty complicated in a simple way, yet still really rocking your world and your way of thinking. "
— Ian, 5/17/2013" Rev Hamilton has a very down to earth approach on discussing Christian views. He speaks 'to' people and not 'at' them. Thought provoking without being contradictory to Christian beliefs. "
— Amy, 2/26/2013" A solid introduction into theodicy from a mailine pastor "
— Preston, 2/21/2013" Short and grounded. Not at all the typical Christian book study. This one is logical, scriptural, and was liked by all 11 women in my Friday morning group (and that NEVER happens!) I'll definitely look for more writing by Adam Hamilton. "
— Thing, 12/17/2012" Short but excellent and well written. This book rightfully challenges many of the common misconceptions about the will of God. "
— Jerry, 11/16/2012" a must read, anyone who had lost a love one. I started a men's group just to present this book. "
— Brian, 7/7/2012Adam Hamilton is the founding pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Kansas City. Started in 1990 with four people, the church has grown to become the largest United Methodist Church in the United States with over eighteen thousand members. The church is well known for connecting with agnostics, skeptics, and spiritual seekers. In 2012 it was recognized as the most influential mainline church in America, and Hamilton was asked by the White House to deliver the sermon at the Obama inaugural prayer service. Hamilton, whose theological training includes an undergraduate degree from Oral Roberts University and a graduate degree from Southern Methodist University, where he was honored for his work in social ethics, is the author of numerous books. He has been married to his wife, LaVon, for more than thirty years and has two adult daughters.
Sean Runnette, an Earphones Award–winning narrator, has also directed and produced more than two hundred audiobooks, including several Audie Award winners. He is a member of the American Repertory Theater company and has toured the United States and internationally with ART and Mabou Mines. His television and film appearances include Two If by Sea, Cop Land, Sex and the City, Law & Order, the award-winning film Easter, and numerous commercials.